According to the 2021 Census of Population, Clarke’s Beach, a small town in Newfoundland and Labrador, recorded a population of 1,400 residents. This marked a decline of 10.1% from the 2016 population of 1,558, a reduction of 158 people. With a land area of 12.64 km², the town’s population density was 110.7 persons per square kilometre in 2021, reflecting its semi-rural character.
Population Growth Trends
Clarke’s Beach has faced population decline over recent census years. From 2016 to 2021, the town lost over one in ten residents, a significant change for a small community.
Age Distribution
The population of Clarke’s Beach is older than the national average, with a median age of 52.0 years and an average age of 48.4 years. Nearly 30% of residents are 65 or older, while just over 12% are under 15 years.
Age Breakdown (2021)
| Age Group | Population | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 0–14 years | 170 | 12.1% |
| 15–64 years | 815 | 58.2% |
| 65+ years | 415 | 29.6% |
Households & Dwellings
In 2021, Clarke’s Beach had 678 private dwellings, with 599 occupied by usual residents. The average household size was 2.2 people. Most homes are single-detached houses (505 units), reflecting the town’s suburban-rural housing style.
Demographics (Race / Ethnicity & Language)
Clarke’s Beach is overwhelmingly English-speaking and non-immigrant in composition.
- English is the sole official language spoken by virtually all residents.
- The visible minority population is negligible, with 0% reported as visible minority in 2021.
- A small Indigenous population (4.5%) identified as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit.
Ethnic Origins (Top Reported, 2021)
| Ethnic Origin | Population |
|---|---|
| English | 530 |
| Canadian | 345 |
| Irish | 245 |
| Scottish | 80 |
| Newfoundlander | 65 |
Income & Poverty
Clarke’s Beach shows modest but stable income levels:
- Median household income (2020): $60,800
- Median after-tax household income: $54,800
- Median individual income: $32,800
- Median employment income: $30,000
Poverty is a challenge, particularly among seniors:
- Overall poverty rate (LIM-AT): 19.8%
- 65+ poverty rate: 32.5%
- Children (0–17) poverty rate: 18.5%
Education
Education levels in Clarke’s Beach show many residents holding trades or college qualifications, but fewer with university degrees.
Highest Certificate, Diploma, or Degree (Aged 15+, 2021)
| Education Level | Population |
|---|---|
| No certificate/diploma/degree | 225 |
| High school diploma | 350 |
| Postsecondary (non-university) | 440 |
| Bachelor’s degree or higher | 145 |
Employment
In 2021, the employment rate in Clarke’s Beach was 46.4%, while the unemployment rate stood at a high 13.6%. Many residents are retired or outside the labour force, reflecting the town’s older population.
Employment by Sector (Top Industries, 2021)
- Health care & social assistance: 100
- Retail trade: 85
- Construction: 85
- Education services: 40
- Public administration: 60
Commuting & Transportation
Clarke’s Beach is primarily a commuter town, with most employed residents driving to work.
- Car, truck, or van: 93.8%
- Walked: 3.1%
- Other methods: 2.1%
- Public transit: 0%
Commute times are generally short:
- Less than 15 minutes: 49%
- 15–29 minutes: 24%
- 30 minutes or more: 27%
Conclusion
Clarke’s Beach in 2021 was a small but aging community facing population decline. With a median age of 52 years, a significant senior population, and high poverty rates among older adults, the town faces demographic and economic challenges. However, its strong English cultural heritage, reliance on health care, retail, and construction industries, and proximity to larger centres make it a notable residential hub in Newfoundland and Labrador.
FAQ
The population of Clarke’s Beach was 1,400 in 2021.
It is shrinking, with a 10.1% decline between 2016 and 2021.
The median age is 52.0 years, significantly higher than the national average.
There were 599 occupied private dwellings in 2021.
Key industries include health care, retail, construction, and public administration.
Source:
- Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population.
- Statistics Canada. Table 17-10-0148-01 Population estimates, July 1, by census metropolitan area and census agglomeration, 2021 boundaries

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